Topical Bible: God: Protecting Abraham, Sarah, and Abimelech

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In the narrative of Genesis 20, we encounter a profound demonstration of God's protective nature over His chosen people, as well as His sovereignty over the affairs of nations and individuals. This account involves Abraham, Sarah, and Abimelech, the king of Gerar, and highlights God's intervention to preserve His covenant and the moral integrity of those involved.

Context and Background

After the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham journeyed toward the Negev and settled between Kadesh and Shur, residing temporarily in Gerar. Despite God's promises and previous experiences of divine faithfulness, Abraham once again succumbed to fear regarding his safety due to Sarah's beauty. He instructed Sarah to claim she was his sister, a half-truth that concealed their marital relationship (Genesis 20:1-2).

Divine Intervention

Abimelech, the king of Gerar, took Sarah into his household, believing her to be Abraham's sister. However, God intervened directly to protect Sarah and uphold His covenant with Abraham. "But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night and said to him, 'You are as good as dead because of the woman you have taken, for she is a married woman'" (Genesis 20:3). This divine warning underscores God's active role in safeguarding His promises and the sanctity of marriage.

Abimelech's Response and God's Justice

Abimelech, who had not approached Sarah, pleaded his innocence and integrity before God. He argued that he acted with a clear conscience, having been misled by Abraham and Sarah's claim. God acknowledged Abimelech's integrity, stating, "Yes, I know that you did this with a clear conscience, and so I have kept you from sinning against Me. That is why I did not let you touch her" (Genesis 20:6). This interaction reveals God's justice and mercy, as He not only protected Sarah but also prevented Abimelech from committing an unwitting sin.

Restoration and Blessing

Following God's instructions, Abimelech returned Sarah to Abraham and compensated him with sheep, cattle, and servants, along with a thousand pieces of silver as a sign of Sarah's vindication. Abimelech's actions demonstrate a recognition of God's authority and a desire to restore righteousness. Abraham, in turn, prayed for Abimelech and his household, and God healed them, allowing them to bear children once more (Genesis 20:14-18).

Theological Implications

This account illustrates several key theological themes:

1. God's Sovereignty and Protection: God's intervention in the affairs of Abraham, Sarah, and Abimelech highlights His sovereign control over human events and His commitment to protect His covenant people.

2. Moral Integrity and Divine Justice: God's acknowledgment of Abimelech's integrity and His prevention of sin demonstrate His just nature and His desire for moral righteousness among all people.

3. Faith and Human Weakness: Abraham's repeated fear and deception reveal the ongoing struggle of faith, even among the patriarchs. Yet, God's faithfulness remains steadfast, underscoring His grace and patience.

4. Intercession and Restoration: Abraham's prayer for Abimelech and the subsequent healing of his household illustrate the power of intercession and God's willingness to restore and bless those who seek righteousness.

In summary, the narrative of God protecting Abraham, Sarah, and Abimelech serves as a testament to God's unwavering commitment to His promises, His justice, and His mercy, as He orchestrates events to fulfill His divine purposes.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 20:3-6
But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, Behold, you are but a dead man, for the woman which you have taken; for she is a man's wife.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... divinities, such as Shamash, Merodach, Ishtar, or Nana, as the eponymous god of
the ... of Babylon, and connected it with one of the events in the life of Abraham. ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers.
... for others that will stick to them"that have no stamp of God upon them ... applied to
all believers, "whose daughters ye are," saith he, meaning Sarah's, "as long ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/seasonable counsel or advice to.htm